52 Things I No Longer Buy For A More Sustainable Life (2025)

This post and the photos within it may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through the link, I may receive a commission at no extra charge to you.

---

Are you looking to cut down on clutter, save money, and reduce your environmental footprint?

Adopting a minimalist and low-waste lifestyle helped me rethink my consumption habits, and I’m sharing 52 things I stopped buying to inspire your journey.

Whether you’re interested in frugal living, sustainability, or just trying to reduce your waste, this list will give you practical ideas on things you don’t need to buy.

Before we dive in, know this isn’t about perfection. There are no strict rules. I occasionally buy some of these, but the goal is progress, not guilt.

Why I stopped buying so many things

Before discovering minimalism and low-waste living, I often bought things I didn’t need – because they were on sale, looked cute, or seemed convenient. Over time, I realized:

• I was wasting money on stuff I barely used.
• I felt more stressed with clutter around me.
• Many products have hidden environmental and health costs.

Once I started focusing on quality over quantity, I saved money, lived more simply, and felt better aligned with my values.

BEAUTY & PERSONAL CARE

1. Makeup remover & excess makeup – I use coconut oil and water. I keep just a couple of essential products.
2. Cotton rounds – A simple piece of cloth will do the job, or you can also get reusable cotton rounds and use them endlessly.
3. Face & body scrubs – I DIY with sugar or DIY scrub with used coffee grounds.
4. Face masks – A simple ingredient like clay or matcha powder mixed with water works wonders.
5. Nail polish – I keep just one or two colors, or borrow occasionally.
6. Face powder & foundation – I had one for maybe 3 years and in total used it 5 times 😀 It never really worked for me. If you use them, finish what you have before buying more. Consider switching to natural brands that are gentler on your skin.
7. Face wash – Gentle soap does the trick.
8. Dry shampoo – I bought it once in my life from the store, and regretted it. They suck. Now, I make a DIY dry shampoo, that’s lasts super long, plus it’s natural, simple & effective.
9. Hair products – Oils like almond or jojoba are all I need.
10. Mouthwash – I skip it or make a homemade mouthwash.
11. Shaving cream – Soap works just fine.
12. Plastic razors – I switched to a stainless steel safety razor. One can technically last you a lifetime, if you take good care of it.
13. Shampoo & conditioner (in bottles) – Shampoo & conditioner bars last longer and come without waste.
14. Body wash – Bar soap only!
15. Cotton earbuds – I use a reusable bamboo one instead.
16. Period products – Easy swap. I use my reusable menstrual cup, my disc, or period undies.

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

Here’s a list of things you don’t need to buy for cleaning & home:

17. Cleaning products – You don’t need 10 different toxic products to clean your home. I use simple, DIY, non-toxic alternatives.
18. Ziplock bags – There are better reusable alternatices, like silicone or fabric baggies, that work just as well.
19. Grocery bags – I use cloth bags or a backpack that I already own. I have an article that shares many easy ways to reduce the use of plastic bags.
20. Souvenirs – I like to take some nice pictures and print them out.
21. Home décor – DIY or use nature’s decor – plants! 😀
22. Fabric softener – White vinegar + essential oils. It acts as a natural fabric softener and leaves no residue on the laundry. I promise, it works like magic.
23. Air freshener – Another toxic product that you’re better off without. I make my own with essential oils.
24. Paper towels – Cloth towels are reusable and effective.
25. Aluminum foil – I use wax wraps or containers instead.
26. Garbage bags – I found 5 sustainable alternatives to trash bags.
27. Coffee filters – French press and Moka pot don’t need them.
28. Dish sponges – Loofah or a dish brush lasts longer and biodegrades.
29. Sauces in plastic bottles – Homemade sauces are easy and healthier.
30. Toothpicks – I floss or brush my teeth instead.
31. Baking paper – Reusable silicone mats for the win.

KITCHEN & FOOD

32. Frozen food in plastic – It might be convenient, but it is always in plastic packaging, so I prefer to buy fresh produce. Also, fresh food is generally healthier.  
33. Chips & packaged snacks – I buy in bulk or make my own. Or try to find sustainable snacks with compostable packaging, like these ones.
34. Extra kitchen tools – I keep only what I use regularly.
35. Reusable bags (excess) – 5 is more than enough!

TECH & ELECTRONICS

36. New phones – I always buy second-hand.
37. Phone accessories – I use the same case and charger until they break.
38. TV – Haven’t had one in years. My laptop does it all.
39. New electronics – I shop secondhand whenever possible. Better for the environment, and for my pocket.
40. Phone subscriptions – I use a prepaid SIM card.

FASHION

41. Trendy clothing – Fast fashion has many problems; it is terrible for the environment, and also focuses on quick trends, and low-quality materials.
42. Special occasion outfits – If I am going to ski or hiking, or if there’s like a Halloween party, I will either borrow or DIY something. It saves money & prevents clutter.
43. Jewelry – I wear what I already have, which is more than plenty. If I would like something new, I will support individual ethical sellers. 
44. Fashion accessories – A few versatile ones are enough.
45. New clothes – If I need something, I buy secondhand or look for ethically made clothes (or organize a clothing swap).

MISCELLANEOUS

46. Notebooks & planners – I use what I already have, which is plenty for now. Only when I’m done with them, I get new ones.
47. Single-use items – Always replaced with reusables, and try to avoid all disposable options, to the best of my abilities.  
48. Wet wipes – Completely unnecessary and not eco-friendly.
49. Books – I use digital versions, borrow physical copies, or get them second-hand from Awesomebooks.
50. Gift wrapping paper – I wrap gifts with fabric (Furoshiki!) or reuse bags.
51. Parfumes & artificial fragrances – I avoid them for health and sustainability reasons.
52. Eco-friendly products I don’t need – Just because it’s sustainable doesn’t mean I need it or I should buy it.

Why this matters

Being mindful of what we consume helps us:

• Spend less and save more.
• Reduce environmental impact.
• Live a simpler, more intentional life.
• Focus on what truly brings us joy and value.

This list of things I stopped buying is a work in progress, and I’m always learning. If I realize I don’t need something, I let it go.

What can you let go of?

There are so many things that don’t serve us – physically, emotionally, financially, or environmentally. I’d love to hear from you:

• What’s one thing you no longer buy?
• What would be hardest to give up?

Let’s chat in the comments!

And if you’re looking for more ideas on things you don’t need to buy to live well and spend less, explore my related posts below.

You Might Also Like:

• How I Saved $3,450 With These Sustainable Swaps
• 40 Zero Waste Products: The Ultimate List
• 34 Best Online Thrift Stores for Sustainable Shopping